The Himalayas by Air, from East to West
India, Bhutan, Myanmar, China, with an extension to Nepal - Storied mountains, hidden cultures, ancient civilizations, and rare wildlife.
Departure Dates
Trip Summary
Everyone knows that the scenery in the world's highest mountain range is incredible. But few have been fortunate enough to experience the Himalayas' diverse range of unique ethnic groups, religious adaptations, wildlife habitats, and biodiversity, and geo-political struggles - all in a single journey.
The only practical way to access them and gain comparative understanding is to fly commercially and by private air. Once there, these destinations can now also provide exquisite cuisine and intimate accommodations in spectacular mountain settings.
In our lectures and discussions, we will cover everything from the origins of Buddhism in Bhutan and Tibet to the remarkable race between China and India for economic growth and future global hegemony. I hope you'll join us for an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Itinerary
Day 1
Friday, March 21
Delhi
On arrival in Delhi (1,000 ft. above sea level) meet your expedition leaders and relax at your luxurious hotel. Join fellow travelers for a special welcome dinner.
Lodging:The Oberoi, 1 night (D)
Day 2
Saturday, March 22
Thimpu, Bhutan
Take a scheduled flight to Paro, then drive to the capital city of Thimpu, at 8,000 feet. En route view the Tachogang Lhakang temple.
Lodging:Taj Tashi Hotel, 2 nights (B,L,D)
Day 3
Sunday, March 23
Thimpu
Explore one of the least known Himalayan capitals and the rich Buddhist history displayed in its National Memorial Chorten. Mingle at the colorful weekend market.
Day 4
Monday, March 24
Paro
This morning visit the Painting School, where children receive an eight-year course in traditional painting, sculpture, and woodcarving, then drive to Paro (7,500 ft.). Scout out the elaborately carved houses, temples, and monasteries. Rinpung Dzong, "the fortress of the heap of jewels" and Ta Dzong's collections of ancient armor, textiles, paintings, and natural history cap off a day of fascinating cultural immersion.
Lodging:Uma Paro Hotel, 2 nights (B,L,D)
Day 5
Tuesday, March 25
Paro
Spend your day studying mythology and legends. Exercise your option to hike to the "Tiger's Nest," the famous hermitage clinging to a sheer cliff face above the valley.
Day 6
Wednesday, March 26
Putao, Myanmar
Fly by private air this morning via Bagan to the town of Putao (1,700 ft.). In the far north of Myanmar (formerly Burma), on the borders of Tibet, this remote town was once a British outpost. It remains cut off from the outside world by millions of acres of subtropical rainforest and jagged peaks. It is one of the last great wilderness areas in the world, full of bio-diversity, where the famous Ayeryarwaddy river is born.
Lodging:Malikha Lodge, 2 nights (B,L,D)
Day 7
Thursday, March 27
Putao
After breakfast enjoy a full day cruise on the Malikha river with a visit to picturesque Manchanbaw. Venture downstream by long tail boat, where villagers can be seen panning for gold. After a picnic lunch along a spectacular white beach, return to Malikha Lodge for sunset.
Day 8
Friday, March 28
Bagan, Myanmar
Take a private flight to Bagan (3,800 ft.), capital of the first Burmese kingdom, and home to one of the most awe inspiring religious monuments in all of Asia. The most direct way for a monk to gain merit is to build a temple, or stupa. Bagan houses over 2,000 such temple ruins concentrated in a mere 25 square mile area. Settle in to comfortable lodgings along the riverside followed by dinner at the Si Thu Restaurant.
Lodging:Thiripyitsaya Sakura Hotel, 2 nights (B,L,D)
Day 9
Saturday, March 29
Bagan
Arise early to enjoy an extraordinary hot air balloon flight over the Ayeyarwaddy river and plains, virtually smothered in pagodas. Traveling by balloon allows a serene bird's-eye view of the ancient temples. After a skillful landing, the crew awaits you with celebratory champagne. Now explore the architectural diversity of temples along the pilgrimage route. You are also free to peruse, and perhaps even commence your collection of the noted handicraft and lacquer-ware. Dinner at a local restaurant follows.
Day 10
Sunday, March 30
Lijiang and the Yunnan Province, China
Fly by private air to Lijiang (7,800 ft.) in Yunnan province. It is the capital of the Naxi Autonomous Prefecture and a World Heritage Site. The charming old town district is lined by cobbled streets, canals, and stone bridges dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Enjoy dinner at your intimate hotel tonight.
Lodging:Banyan Tree Lijiang, 3 nights (B,L,D)
Day 11
Monday, March 31
Lijiang
Walk through old town, stopping at Mu's Mansion. Continue to the Nature Conservancy's headquarters to learn about the region's ecology. After lunch drive into the countryside and visit the small Yufengsi Monastery, an ancient center of learning set on the slopes of Jade Dragon Mountain. Take a short walk to Ngulukou village to visit the former residence of Joseph Rock, an eccentric National Geographic botanist and ethnographer who lived here 30 years.
Day 12
Tuesday, April 1
Lijiang
Walk old Lijiang, the capital of the fascinating Naxi ethnic minority known for their matriarchal society, pictographic language, and distinctive music. Visit the newly opened museum and this evening witness a performance of traditional music and dance believed to date from the Tang Dynasty.
Day 13
Wednesday, April 2
Shangri-la and the Yunnan Province
Drive north through scenic countryside, and enjoy views of snow peaks, traditional villages, and small farms. The vegetation changes as we gain altitude passing from deciduous forest, through conifer and rhododendron, to high grasslands on the Tibetan plateau. Stops during today's drive include Stone Drum Village, stunning Tiger Leaping Gorge, and other points along the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, known in this region as the River of Golden Sands. This evening arrive in Shangri-la and the town of Zhongdian (10,000 ft.).
Lodging:Banyan Tree Ringha, 2 nights (B,L,D)
Day 14
Thursday, April 3
Shangri-la
Zhongdian is the capital of the Dechen Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It is also homeland to the tall, turbaned Kham people known for their fierce, warlike character and horsemanship. Visit the spectacular Ganden Sumsanling Monastery where more than 800 monks live and practice. Built on the instruction of the 5th Dalai Lama in the 17th century, the monastery is located on the top of a hill and bears a striking resemblance to Potala Palace. This afternoon explore alpine Shudu lake and wildflower meadows where yaks and horses graze. Tonight enjoy a special Tibetan dinner at Songtsan Lugu Hotel.
Day 15
Friday, April 4
Lhasa and Tibet, China
Today your commercial flight features spectacular views of some of the world's most remote and harsh terrain, before landing on the banks of the great Yarlung Tsangpo river. Arrive in the bustling city of Lhasa (12,500 ft.). This afternoon is free to relax and acclimate, before visiting the Tibet Museum, followed by dinner at the hotel.
Lodging:Brahmaputra Hotel, 3 nights (B,L,D)
Day 16
Saturday, April 5
Lhasa
Begin your exploration of the "Holy City," with the immense Potala Palace. Thirteen stories high and over 1000 rooms, the Potala contains the Dalai Lama's residences, immense tombs, numerous prayer halls, and storage areas for treasure and religious articles. This afternoon visit the heart of Lhasa - the traditional market place and its most important pilgrimage site, the Jokhang Temple. The temple houses the first statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha seen in Tibet, and has a constant procession of pilgrims moving in "circumambulation."
Day 17
Sunday, April 6
Lhasa
Explore important monasteries in the hills outside the city. Chief among these is the great Drepung Monastery filled with art treasures and elaborate murals depicting the great epics of Tibetan Buddhism. This afternoon see Sera Monastery where novices conduct daily theological debates under the supervision of the abbot. Part discussion, part wrestling match, they are a fascinating visual spectacle. This evening celebrate your Himalayan experiences with a farewell dinner at the hotel.
Day 18
Monday, April 7
International Flights Home
This morning transfer to Lhasa airport for your commercial flight to Beijing and international flights home.
Post Trip to Nepal
Price: $2465
Single Supplement: $2530
Day 19
Kathmandu, Nepal
Fly commercially from Lhasa to Kathmandu (approx. 4,400 feet above sea level) and check into Dwarika's, an intimate hotel hand made by Nepalese craftsmen. This afternoon walk to Pashiputinath, the most sacred Hindu temple in Nepal, where Hindu Sardhu's pray and perform rituals and cremations at the riverside Ghats. Dinner this evening will be at a traditional Nepali restaurant.
Lodging:Dwarika's Hotel, 1 night (D)
Day 20
Chitwan National Park
Early this morning (weather permitting) take a stunning 45 minute scenic flight to Mt. Everest, followed by a short commercial flight to Chitwan (approx. 500 to 2,600 feet above sea level). On arrival safari vehicles and canoes take you to the trail head for a 30 minute walk to the tented camp at Tiger Tops. Enjoy an afternoon elephant back safari.
Lodging:Tiger Tops Tented Camp, 2 nights (B,L,D)
Day 21
Chitwan National Park
Enjoy a full day game viewing by elephant, canoe, safari vehicles, or on foot. Search for rhinos, crocodiles, deer, monkeys, bears, a variety of birds, and possibly a sighting of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. There will also be a chance to visit the Elephant camp for a talk by local elephant experts.
Days 22 - 23
Kathmandu
After a morning of game viewing, fly to Kathmandu. This afternoon is free with dinner at a local restaurant. The following day explore the Buddhist temple complex of Boudinath which is home to some 10,000 Buddhist monks, then drive to the ancient town of Bhaktapur which remains unchanged. After lunch drive to Thamel and enjoy a free afternoon of shopping.
Lodging:Dwarika's Hotel, 2 nights (B,L,D)
Day 24
International Flights Home.
Study Leaders
The Himalayas is also rich in bio-diversity and rare wildlife, hence we've invited naturalists, local experts, and special guest speakers along the way, to help us learn about this unusual mountain habitat, and interpret the intricacies of the native fauna and flora.
Scott Pearson
During this journey, Scott will cover the historical and cultural underpinnings to understand the exotic people we are visiting. In lectures and discussions, we will explore a wide range of topics from the origins of Buddhism in Bhutan and Tibet, to the remarkable race between China and India for economic growth and future global hegemony.
Eli Haizlip
Eli has worked and traveled in Asia for over twenty years, including China, Myanmar, Bhutan, India, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Japan. Eli is fluent in Mandarin and has long standing relationships with some of the very best local guides in the area.
Note: Substitution leaders and guest speakers are occasionally necessary. We ask your patience and acceptance should this occur.
Cost
Capacity: This expedition is limited to 36 guests.
Dates: March 21 - April 7, 2008 (18 days)
Per person double occupancy: $26,850
Single Supplement: $2,530
Nepal Extension: $2,465
Accommodations: Accommodations are the best available at each destination. However it is important to note that some Asian facilities are rudimentary and not to be compared with western standards. Most accommodations are luxurious four and five star properties. In general the range of accommodations, not to mention the places themselves, require a spirit of adventure.
Single accommodations: These are limited and cannot be guaranteed throughout. If a share is requested and a roommate cannot be assigned by final payment, the single supplement fee will be charged.
International Airfare: Bushtracks would be happy to assist you in making your air arrangements. Itineraries and prices will be supplied upon request.
Preparing For Your Adventure
At Bushtracks, we believe that being prepared for your adventure makes a world of difference in your ability to savor your travels.
Our experienced team knows just what kind of information you'll find most valuable in your final preparations for the exciting adventure ahead. We'll include much of this in your Expedition Planner and Preparation Package, sent to you before departure. Our knowledgeable staff is on hand to answer any additional questions. So you can know before you go, you'll receive:
Detailed itinerary and typical day on safari. Learn what a "typical day" might look like, even though we all know each day holds a new adventure.
Etiquette and customs highlights. As a guest in any country it is best to be aware of local customs and expected behavior. You'll be privy to critical insights into tactful behavior and overall cultural sensitivities.
Health and insurance information. Bushtracks Expeditions automatically covers you with International Medical Evacuation Insurance and Accident/Sickness Medical Coverage. We'll also send you information on supplemental insurance and a listing of immunization requirements.
Travel tips. Keeping you safe and healthy is our number one priority. We'll help you determine food and water safety, how to avoid sun over-exposure, clothing and packing lists, tips for avoiding motion sickness, local currency exchange suggestions and much more.
Reading lists. To help you prepare for this expedition, we'll send you specially selected field guides and a comprehensive reading list.
Documents. Passport requirements and visa kits with full instructions.
Voucher wallet. Just before departure, you will receive an attractive voucher wallet holding all relevant air tickets and travel vouchers to submit to ground operators for prepaid flights, tours and accommodations.
Contact information. An extensive list of contact information so those at home can be informed on how to reach you.